Medical marijuana nonprofit NPG changes name

Northeast Patients Group, one of the nonprofits licensed to operate medical marijuana dispensaries in Maine, has changed its name to Wellness Connections of Maine.

"We feel the new name better reflects our identity as a Maine-based nonprofit organization that prioritizes the individual needs of our clients and offers an array of wellness-related services designed to help our chronically or severely ill patients live the highest quality of life possible," said Executive Director Rebecca DeKeuster. The group holds licenses to open four of Maine's eight dispensaries and already is operating one in Thomaston, with plans for additional facilities in Brewer, Hallowell and Portland. The group has been embroiled in legal disputes with its former parent corporation, Berkeley Patients Group of California.

DeKeuster said the group plans to offer patients "a variety of services and educational opportunities to enhance their total health and well-being."